Gluten-free beer segment grows, Harvester Brewing opens gluten-free brewpub

Gluten-free isn’t just a dietary fad. When Craft Brewing Business tackled the developing craft of gluten-free beers, we detailed the significance of this craft beer segment and the importance of correct labeling. There is also a very human element to the gluten-free discussion, as Glutten Free brewing New Planet Beer Co. Founder Pedro Gonzalez told us.

“A friend of mine turned me onto a gluten-free beer at a BBQ,” Gonzales said. “I felt normal again. I was able to have a burger and beer on a nice summer day in Denver.”

The gluten-free segment continues to grow. Recently, Harvester Brewing announced the grand opening of Portland’s first ever dedicated gluten-free brewpub, serving Harvester’s award winning beer on draft alongside gourmet bistro-style dishes.

The Harvester Brewing team has brought in Chef Neil Davidson to create a rotating menu of gluten-free dishes to pair with their high-quality beers. “There is nothing better than having a delicious meal paired with excellent beer,” Davidson said. “The ability to create an entire menu that is 100-percent gluten-free to match such a diverse selection of gluten-free beers is thrilling. I have never seen anyone try this before.”

Davidson’s culinary focus has been on elevated American family style cuisine with an emphasis on local and seasonal dishes. Davidson graduated from culinary school with James and moved to California where he worked with Chef Thomas Keller at The French Laundry and Chef Dave Cruz at Ad Hoc. Most recently Davidson has been the chef of a well-received supper club in San Francisco, offering a rotating multi-course menu paired with beer.

“It is really exciting to come back from our recent win at the Great American Beer Festival and announce that we are opening what may be the world’s first gluten-free brewpub,” said Harvester Owner James Neumeister.

Don’t miss our in-depth look at running a brewpub in our Brewpub Files

Harvester’s current menu currently includes toasted sandwiches with locally cured artisan meats, cheese plates sourced from local creameries, house-made pickles and ice cream. The pub offers up to eight beers on tap including year round and seasonal releases as well as pub only small batch brews. The brewery is a dedicated gluten-free craft brewery and gastropub founded in 2011. Harvester Brewing’s facility is entirely gluten-free; no gluten is allowed on the premises.